A new survey has found that nearly half of UK women admit they ignore feelings of anxiety and simply push through, potentially affecting their sleep, relationships, and careers. Pharmacist Thorrun Govind urges women not to dismiss the signs of day-to-day anxiety.
Anxiety among UK women
The survey, commissioned by Kalms Herbal Remedies, shows that 57% of UK women experience mild anxiety at least once a week, while 13% feel anxious multiple times a day. By comparison, only 8% of men report similar anxiety. Day-to-day anxiety refers to persistent mild to moderate feelings of unease triggered by everyday pressures such as work, home life, finances, or responsibilities, often without one obvious cause. While many women describe these symptoms as mild, the impact can be significant.
Effects on sleep, productivity, and confidence
- Sleep disruption: 42% say anxiety keeps them awake, and 50% report that poor sleep leaves them irritable or short-tempered the next day.
- Productivity: 41% struggle to focus on routine tasks, affecting decision-making.
- Confidence: 39% feel less confident at work or socially, and for 8%, anxiety has negatively impacted career progression.
- Relationships: 39% say anxiety reduces their ability to enjoy time with loved ones, while 19% report tension in relationships.
A spokesperson for Anxiety UK said: “For many women, day-to-day anxiety and stress does not look dramatic. It looks like lying awake replaying conversations, snapping after a restless night, losing focus in meetings, or feeling guilty for not doing enough. Recognising the symptoms early and putting appropriate support in place can help prevent them from becoming more severe and potentially disabling over time.”
Triggers and life stage pressures
The research indicates that women’s anxiety is often caused by the accumulation of everyday pressures rather than a single dramatic event. Over a third of women, 37%, report struggling with overthinking or difficulty switching off. 1 in 5, 20%, point to everyday responsibilities or home tasks as triggers, nearly double the proportion of men at 12%. Life stage pressures also contribute, with 21% linking anxiety to parenting, ageing, or hormonal changes, compared with 9% of men. Furthermore, 15% say their anxiety stems from managing the expectations or emotional needs of others, showing that the pressure is not just about their own responsibilities but about responding to everyone else’s needs as well.
Thorrun Govind, pharmacist and former Chair of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society, said: “I regularly speak to women who are feeling tired, overwhelmed, and not quite themselves, particularly during busy or demanding periods of life. Some may also find it harder to relax or switch off at the end of the day. These experiences are often brushed aside as part of everyday pressures, which can mean people delay taking time to look after their well-being.”
Coping and risk behaviours
Despite believing they are managing anxiety, nearly half of women, 44%, admit they ignore symptoms and push through. More than a quarter, 26%, report increasing alcohol intake to cope with symptoms such as sleeplessness, and almost 3 in 10, 29%, have taken time off work, school, or caregiving responsibilities due to anxiety.
Practical steps to manage day-to-day anxiety
Thorrun Govind shares 5 practical strategies
Fix evenings first
Create a proper wind-down routine. Dim lights, avoid scrolling in bed, reduce caffeine after lunchtime, and give your brain a signal that the day is done.
Move, even when you do not feel like it
Gentle movement such as walking, stretching, or yoga can help discharge nervous energy. Consistency matters more than intensity.
Stop suffering in silence
Talking to a friend, partner, or family member can reduce isolation. Organisations such as Anxiety UK provide structured support. Healthcare professionals like GPs can help if symptoms persist.
Rethink coping habits
Avoid using alcohol or withdrawal for short-term relief. Small, healthier rituals such as a bath, journaling, or mindful breathing are more supportive long-term.
Consider early support
Pharmacists can advise on over-the-counter options. Lavender oil preparations are traditionally used for temporary relief of mild anxiety symptoms and should complement healthy lifestyle habits and professional support. Look for the Traditional Herbal Registration (THR) logo, which verifies quality and safety.
Conclusion
The survey highlights the prevalence of day-to-day anxiety among UK women and the importance of recognising symptoms early rather than ignoring them. Broader data from the Office for National Statistics and NHS Digital consistently show women report higher levels of anxiety than men, influenced by work-life balance, caring responsibilities, and hormonal changes. Early lifestyle adjustments and professional support can prevent symptoms from escalating and make a meaningful difference.